Middle Fork of the Gila River

The Little Bear Canyon and Middle Fork Gila Loop is a difficult 11.6-mile (18.7 km) hiking route that plunges you into the heart of the Gila Wilderness. Expect a dynamic journey through dramatic canyons, with the Middle Fork of the Gila River demanding frequent crossings amidst stunning cliffs and golden cottonwood trees. Little Bear Canyon offers its own unique charm, starting with cool, moss-caked narrows before revealing towering hoodoo cliffs, all while gaining 878 feet (268 metres) of elevation over approximately 5 hours and 3 minutes.

Planning your visit requires preparation for consistently wet feet due to the numerous river crossings; water shoes and trekking poles are highly recommended. Be mindful of the monsoon season from June to August, as flash floods can be a risk in the narrow canyons. Route-finding can also be challenging in places, so come prepared with a map and navigation skills for this remote adventure.

This loop stands out for its access to the primitive Jordan Hot Springs, offering a unique natural reward along the way. It's a true Gila Wilderness experience, showcasing diverse ecosystems from pinon and juniper to lush riverine vegetation, and providing a glimpse into the world's first designated wilderness area. The proximity to the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument also adds a historical dimension to your wilderness exploration.

If you are seeking a profound wilderness experience, the West Fork, Big Bear Canyon, Middle Fork, and Little Bear Loop delivers with its rugged beauty and challenging terrain. This difficult 23.8-mile (38.3 km) hike, featuring 2712 feet (827 metres) of elevation gain, immerses you in the Gila Wilderness, guiding you through stunning canyon scenery, past the Middle Fork of the Gila River, and into the unique moss-covered narrows of Little Bear Canyon. Expect a true backcountry adventure, where solitude is abundant and the landscape constantly changes from open mesas to lush river floodplains.

Planning for this extensive loop, which typically takes around 10 hours and 51 minutes to complete, requires careful preparation. You will encounter numerous river crossings, so be ready for wet feet and consider bringing trekking poles for stability. Given the primitive trail markers in this designated wilderness area, carrying reliable offline maps is crucial for navigation. Always check weather forecasts, especially during monsoon season, as flash floods can be a hazard in the narrow canyons.

This trail is a test of endurance and self-reliance, offering a deep dive into an untouched landscape where wildlife observation is a possibility. The Gila Wilderness is known for its diverse ecosystem, and the sense of remoteness is a key draw for experienced hikers. While the trail itself is the main attraction, the nearby Gila Cliff Dwellings offer a fascinating historical detour, providing a glimpse into ancient civilizations.

The Little Bear Canyon Trail to Jordan Hot Springs offers a challenging yet incredibly rewarding journey into the heart of the Gila National Forest. You'll start in a desert scrubland before descending into the dramatic Little Bear Canyon, where towering hoodoo cliffs create a striking landscape. The trail then follows the Middle Fork of the Gila River, winding through canyons lined with golden cottonwood and white sycamore trees, leading you to the primitive Jordan Hot Springs for a well-deserved soak.

This difficult 11.2-mile (18.0 km) hike, with 1220 feet (372 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 5 hours and 4 minutes one way, so plan for an overnight trip or a very long day. You'll encounter many river crossings, so bring water shoes as your feet will get wet. The best time to visit is between May and November, but always check for flash flood warnings, especially during rainy seasons.

What makes this trail truly special is its location within the country's first designated wilderness, offering a remote and natural adventure away from the crowds. The primitive Jordan Hot Springs, with water temperatures ranging from 90 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit, are the perfect therapeutic reward after navigating the varied terrain. Keep an eye out for wildlife, including potential rattlesnakes during warmer months, as you immerse yourself in this unique wilderness experience.